The Difference between“不” bù and “没” méi

Many foreign students are often confused about some similar words in Chinese. For example:不 and 没，which look the same, even though they are used quite differently.

“Bù” 不 and “méi”没 are both negative words. Here, I have listed several situations indicating how to use them properly. But remember, there are always overlaps and exceptions.

1. For expressing don’t have and there isn’t or there aren’t, you must use “méi you” or “méi”. you can not use “bù”. “Méi” can be used in the short term for “méi you”, usually you can replace each other.

Angeline graduated from Shanghai International Studies University. She has around 7 years of experience teaching all levels of Chinese to international students, including teaching Chinese culture and oral speaking. She is currently teaching online at TouchChinese for Chinese learners. Angeline is also a recorder for the movies of TouchChinese. She likes to help foreigners learn Chinese using movies. She is skilled at helping kids study Chinese in her unique teaching style.
Learning Chinese is a long journey, but if you follow her, you will feel wonderful and happy along the trip.